City Showcases New Online Tools to Attract Newcomers to London

City Councillors got a closer look on Tuesday at efforts to attract and retain newcomers in London.

“On the Move: Your Guide to living in London and Middlesex County, Canada” and “Start London” were presented to the Community and Protective Services Committee.

The objectives of the London and Middlesex Immigration Portal are to attract and retain newcomers including international students. The initiative consists of a video and online guide.

Funding for the projects was provided by the Government of Ontario, which has committed over $650,000 in funding towards immigration-related initiatives since 2007.

Robert Collins of the London Economic Development Corporation said they want people to know London is open for business.

“When you think about London, and all of it’s nature assets, it’s access to markets, it’s talent that’s here, we’re hoping that people will consider London versus some other communities in the area,” Collins said.

The portal’s video is available in 6 languages, and the guide detail the supports and services available to entrepreneurs.

Collins said any new businesses that are established in the area by newcomers will benefit all residents with their economic spinoff.